Rationale
Young people (18-35 years) constitute one-third of
Bangladesh’s population (BBS, 2015). This youth bulge offers a
great potential of demographic dividend for the country, which
will end in 2040. Harvesting the benefits of demographic
dividends depends on how young the people will be integrated
into the development process. This workshop and online
dialogue were needed for future generations to be inspired to
participate in democracy and good governance.
Objective
To developed a positive relationship between youth and the
political representatives to create a positive impact at the
policy level concerning youth roles in democracy and good
governance.
Activity Details
Registration: Social media shared a call for
registration among the youth. A total of 64 participants from
64 districts across the country were selected based on their
knowledge of governance and democracy for joining the event.
Workshop: A sensitization workshop engaged
youth in understanding good governance and empowering their
understanding of democratic values to life, leading to the
overturning of authoritarian practices. It focused on
strengthening their mindset on asking questions relevant to
democracy and good governance. The workshop comprised group
works and explored new youth perspectives on the challenges
and opportunities of democratic inclusion in theory and
practice. This workshop allowed the youth to envision the
country’s growth in the next 50 years. A facilitator was
present in the workshop to guide the learning.
Online Dialogue: With the presence of 5
multi-party youth leaders as panelists, the dialogue was
effective and eventful as 64 youth from 64 districts shared
their views, expectations, and involvement in the democratic
process of the country.
